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Do You Want a Nap Cat?
Does your head automatically turn at an attractive puss? Does a cool demeanor have you coming back for more? Do you want a significant other?
Are you prepared for a give and take relationship?
Are you willing to sacrifice your personal time to provide for the happiness
and well being of another?
Can you commit to sharing the good times and the bad?
Depending on your answers, you may be ready for a CAT. All of these concerns relate to human relationships, AND they certainly apply to the relationship between you and your CAT. Many of the same decisions and commitments must be made in order for you and any CAT to enjoy your lives together.
If you are comfortable in your current lifestyle, and aren't sure you want to significantly change it, a CAT may be the perfect PET for you. Don't misunderstand, a CAT, just like any PET needs your warmth and companionship, care and protection.
If you are selfish of your time, a CAT can be the same way. Sure CATS love to have their ear scratched, and would wait almost forever to play "Swat the catnip mouse" you're dangling in front of his or her face. But CATS are less likely to hold it against you if you come home late on a Friday evening. And if you forgot to fill the water or kibble bowl, SHAME ON YOU, you may not see your CAT for a day or two. CATS love attention, but sometimes all they really want to do is curl up in the corner of your favorite chair and take a nap. A CAT-nap…with one eye always open to make sure the birds stay in the trees, the mice behind the wall, and the fish in their bowl on the piano, and your whereabouts known.
Remember that just as any other relationship you need to be aware of what you're getting into before you bring a CAT into your home. When a human relationship dissolves the people remain functional and can regain a happy life. Most CATS taken out of a relationship have a much grimmer outlook--disease, predators, untimely death.
The National Council on Pet Population Study and Policy is an organization that collects and studies information concerning pet populations. Their list of the ten most popular reasons for relinquishing pets to shelters can be seen by clicking here. Review this list BEFORE you get a cat. If there is the potential that one of these reasons may affect you - DON'T GET A CAT!
Visit the Council's web site - it's very interesting.
And if you really want a CAT, there are some things you can do to make sure you find the perfect one for you. Read our article Selecting A Cat, and then do some further investigation of the different breeds.
Written by Ron Lueth, Pet Guardian Angels of America
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